Recently, a researcher requested an appointment to look at some clothing items that had belonged to one of his distant relatives but were since donated to the Museum’s collections. As we all oohed and aahed over a pair of beautiful late 19th century silk and lace drawers, the researcher commented, with a laugh, “I bet Aunt [so and so] would be none too happy to have her drawers out for public display!”

I am presently working on an exhibit scheduled to open in June about the history of women’s underwear, Underneath It All, and the researcher’s comment got me thinking. Why is it that I am intrigued by these 100-year-old drawers, but if someone offered me the underwear they had on yesterday I would be a little grossed out? And how would I feel if 100 years from now my underwear was out on display for the world to see?  Or better yet, what if it was on display tomorrow?

Drawer containing 19th-century bustles, some of which may be on display in an upcoming exhibit. Missouri History Museum.

If I am expected to talk about the evolution of women’s underwear, I know I am going to have to include artifacts up to the present day. So as I dig through my own underwear drawer looking for things evocative of the last 20 years, I ask you, might you have a Wonderbra or pair of Spanx you aren’t using anymore? 

I am mostly searching for items from the 1950s to the present, including children’s underwear and maternity/nursing items, but I am open to any and all suggestions. For example, other items that might be of interest include a water bra, an inflatable bra, a training bra, and maybe even some Underoos.

If you think you have something that falls within these guidelines, please let us know by sending an email to objects@mohistory.org.

And be sure to check the Missouri History Museum's website for more information about Underneath It All, opening this June!

—Shannon Meyer, Senior Curator